Stephenie Meyer continues to delight science fiction/fantasy readers with this new adult novel (though her Young Adult readers need not fear, they will find this novel both appropriate and easily readable). Wanderer, a 'soul' who inhabits a human body acts as the story's central narrator. In this regard Meyer certainly achieves a literary feat, somehow she manages to make an alien parasite into a sympathetic narrator. It could have something to do with the other consciousness kicking around Wanderer's head, Melanie. Melanie is the former owner of the human body that Wanderer inhabits, and unlike most humans she refuses to completely relinquish control of her body to the 'souls.' As Wanderer becomes overly attached to Melanie's still intact psyche she becomes unable to distinguish between their desires. She runs off in search of Jared, the man Melanie loves, and finds herself entangled in a love triangle involving only two bodies amidst a whole band of renegade humans. The Host calls into question just what quality makes someone 'human' as Wanderer embarks on a journey to find out where she really belongs. Meyer leaves things open for a possible sequel or another series, though the book is satisfying as a stand alone read.

The author of the Twilight series of # 1 bestsellers delivers her brilliant first novel for adults: a gripping story of love and betrayal in a future with the fate of humanity at stake.

Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. The earth has been invaded by a species that take over the minds of their human hosts while leaving their bodies intact, and most of humanity has succumbed.

Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, knew about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the too vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn't expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind.

Melanie fills Wanderer's thoughts with visions of the man Melanie loves-Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body's desires, Wanderer yearns for a man she's never met. As outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off to search for the man they both love.

Featuring what may be the first love triangle involving only two bodies, THE HOST is a riveting and unforgettable novel that will bring a vast new readership to one of the most compelling writers of our time.


Stephenie Meyer graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in English literature. After the publication of her debut novel, Twilight, booksellers chose her as one of the "most promising new authors of 2005" (Publishers Weekly). She lives with her husband and three young sons in Arizona.

Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Distributor: Hachette Book Group USA
Publication Date: 05-06-2008
Pages: 624
Measurements: 9.5in X 6.375in X 1.875in X 1.95lb